10
10
Main Objective:
The next steps are focused on trimming, shaping and fitting the braces on the
top.
Step Eleven – Trimming the Brace Ends
•
Mark the ends of bracing that will touch the side kerfing 3/32” thick
or simply lay a sharp pencil flat on the back and mark the ends of the
bracing.
•
Scallop the end of the bracing to the 3/32” mark.
•
The shoulder brace can be left thick as this does not dramatically
change the overall sound. Using a sharp chisel, follow the existing
curve of the brace and reshape the end to be 3/32” thick.
Alternative to Step 11:
Using a small laminate router, cantilever it over
the workbench on a piece of 1” scrap and use a ½” straight cutter set at a
height that will cut the brace to 3/32” high. (Be sure to cut a test piece.)
With the top face down, pass the ends of the x-braces and shoulder brace
under the cutter to trim the ends. Now scallop the braces to the new
height of the ends of the braces. This method will ensure a uniform
height for all the braces. A Dremel tool with a base and a small straight
cutter could be used to trim the lining, being careful not to cut all the way
through the sides of the guitar. See the attached photo.
Note:
Be sure to review pages 11-15 for tips and information on
scalloping the braces.
Note:
When you are using a chisel and creating constant downward
pressure to thin your bracing, be sure to rest the top on a hard surface. If
you use a spongy non-skid pad to rest the top on, you risk significant flex
and possible damage to the top. Be careful…be gentle!!
